Aluminium doped Zn1−xMgxO—A transparent conducting oxide with tunable optical and electrical properties

A ternary mixed oxide Zn1−xMgxO has been doped with aluminium to create a range of transparent conducting oxides with tunable refractive index as well as work function. Conductive material was synthesised up to a magnesium concentration of x = 0.45, although the conductivity is reduced compared to standard ZnO:Al. The changes in band gap, work function, and conductivity have been attributed to a modified band structure and energetic position of the aluminium induced donor state.